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Film: “The Reinvention” starring Michael K. Williams

Posted on January 1, 2013

Everyone has a style or a distinct way that they dress, but have you ever wondered what actually makes up a person’s style? In the above feature, director Jakob Dascheck explores the concept of personal style through renowned Boardwalk Empire and The Wire actor Michael K. Williams. In this film, Williams tells a story of a man, who decided that he had nothing good and decided to sell everything he had in order to place a bet on a better life. I found this feature extremely intriguing because it sheds light on the importance of what you can do with what little you have, as well as what you can do when your back is against the wall.

In an interview with Mr. Porter Magazine, Williams spoke of how the script spoke to him, as he had to take a big risk in order to get to where he is now. Growing up in Flatbush, NY, Williams explains how he grew up poor and struggled with his identity ,being of both Caribbean and African American descent. At the age of 18, Williams decided to not keep up with the Joneses and develop his own unique style saying,

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“At 18 I was like, screw it, I’m gonna dress like me. I bought my first pair of penny loafers, and started wearing things like cashmere coats. My neighbourhood was pretty conservative, so walking around in a Michael Jackson jacket, penny loafers and Ray-Bans meant I caught a lot of flack.”

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Although ridiculed at first, Williams developed confidence in himself and his concept of style followed him throughout his career and has been expressed through many of his projects. Be sure to check out the full article and interview at MrPorter.com. Definitely a dope read.